There's something irresistible about a good detective show. The blend of suspense, action, and emotional connection to the sleuths keeps us coming back episode after episode. Whether it's the comforting familiarity of a small-town mystery or the adrenaline of a high-stakes investigation, these series have earned their place in our rewatch rotation. Here are the detective shows that are simply too good to watch just once.
10. 'Murder, She Wrote' (1984–1996)
For many of us, Murder, She Wrote was our first love in the detective genre. Starring the legendary Angela Lansbury as Jessica Fletcher, a widowed English teacher turned bestselling mystery writer, this series ran for 12 seasons and earned countless Golden Globe and Emmy nominations. Lansbury herself won four Golden Globes and still holds the record for most nominations for an actress. The show follows Jessica as she uses her sharp intellect to help police solve crimes in her fictional hometown of Cabot Cove, Maine, and beyond. It's a warm, witty, and endlessly comforting watch. A new movie is in development, with Jamie Lee Curtis stepping into Lansbury's shoes, set for release in 2027.
9. 'A Good Girl's Guide to Murder' (2024–)
Netflix's adaptation of Holly Jackson's bestselling YA mystery series is a fresh, coming-of-age detective story. Emma Myers (Wednesday) stars as Pippa "Pip" Fitz-Amobi, a 17-year-old who reopens a five-year-old murder case for a school project. She believes that Sal Singh, the boy who allegedly killed Andie Bell and then died by suicide, was innocent. With Sal's brother Ravi (Zain Iqbal) by her side, Pip uncovers dark secrets in her town of Little Kelton. The first season is a gripping ride, even for those who haven't read the books, and the chemistry between Myers and Iqbal is electric. Season 2 drops on May 27, so now's the time to catch up.
8. 'iZombie' (2015–2019)
This DC Comics adaptation puts a deliciously fun twist on the detective genre. Rose McIver plays Liv Moore, a medical resident who becomes a zombie after a party goes wrong. To maintain her humanity, she takes a job at a morgue, where eating brains gives her the victim's memories—and clues to their murder. With the help of her boss, she becomes an unofficial detective solving cases in Seattle. iZombie balances crime-solving with humor and heart, making it an underrated gem that's perfect for repeat viewing.
7. 'Lucifer' (2016–2021)
What if the devil himself became a detective? That's the premise of Lucifer, starring Tom Ellis as Lucifer Morningstar, who abandons Hell for Los Angeles, opens a nightclub called Lux, and ends up helping LAPD detective Chloe Decker (Lauren German) solve crimes. The series blends supernatural fantasy with police procedural, and the chemistry between Ellis and German is magnetic. After Fox canceled it on a massive cliffhanger, fan petitions saved the show, and Netflix gave it three more seasons. It's a devilishly good binge.
More Detective Shows to Rewatch
Of course, no list would be complete without mentioning the long-running staples like Criminal Minds and Law & Order: Special Victims Unit, both of which have spawned reboots and continue to attract new fans. For those who love a classic, Murder, She Wrote remains the ultimate comfort watch. And if you're in the mood for something with a supernatural edge, iZombie and Lucifer offer fresh takes on the genre. For more binge-worthy recommendations, check out our list of timeless K-dramas or dive into the gritty world of Michael Mann's Miami Vice. And if you're a fan of true crime with a twist, don't miss Netflix's Should I Marry a Murderer?.
Whether you prefer cozy mysteries, YA thrillers, or supernatural noir, these detective shows offer endless rewatch value. So grab your snacks, settle in, and let the investigations begin.
